Leadership Insights for September 17th, 2025

Welcome to Leadership Insights! Each week, we curate transformative leadership insights and add our own expertise to help you lead with purpose and impact. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, you’ll find actionable wisdom in every edition.


I have a leadership strategy for you that you might not have tried: Use a “reverse delegation” moment to develop your team’s critical thinking skills. Instead of solving a problem or giving a directive, ask your team member to explain how you could solve it if the roles were reversed.

For example, if someone comes to you with a challenge, respond with: “If I were in your shoes, what would you suggest I do?” This approach encourages ownership, sharpens their problem-solving abilities, and builds their confidence in making decisions. It’s a simple shift that turns routine conversations into powerful growth opportunities.


This Week’s Posts We Love

LinkedIn Spotlight by Justin Wright

I recently shared about the art and skill of listening in leadership, and Justin Wright’s post really solidified my thinking. His framework on the 5 levels of listening is a powerful reminder that true leadership starts with being fully present. In my CARE to Lead® work, I see time and again that the leaders who listen deeply build the strongest trust and relationships. Take a look at his post and ask yourself: Which level are you leading from?

Click Here to Check Out The Full LI Post


Podcast Spotlight from Take Command: A Leadership Podcast

The title of this episode stopped me in my tracks: Convicted, Not Defeated. Rashmi Airan’s story is a powerful reminder that true leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about owning our choices, learning from them, and leading with authenticity. This conversation on resilience, ethics, and redemption is one you don’t want to miss. Tune in and let Rashmi’s journey inspire you to lead with courage and conviction.

Listen to the Full Episode Here


Book of the Week

Positive Self-Talk: Transforming Your Silent Thoughts by Shani T. Night

This week’s choice for leaders is Positive Self-Talk, a transformative guide to mastering the inner dialogue that shapes your mindset and actions. With 20 essential insights and 21 practical exercises, this book helps leaders identify and overcome negative self-talk while fostering confidence and resilience. It’s a powerful tool for those seeking to cultivate a positive, growth-oriented perspective that enables them to lead themselves—and others—more effectively.

Find it on Amazon


Must-Read Article of the Week

“Anxiety Is Now the Top Mental Health Issue in the Workplace” by Kathryn Mayer

It’s striking how widespread anxiety has become, and this piece highlights its real impact on employees and organizations alike. It also makes clear that leaders can—and should—play a direct role in addressing anxiety through supportive policies and open communication. You’ll walk away feeling more determined to foster a work culture where people feel safe, understood, and capable of doing their best.

Read the Full Article Here


From the CARE to Lead® Archives

Stop Saying “It’s Fine” When It’s Not

We’ve all heard (or said) “It’s fine” when it’s anything but fine. These closed-down statements might feel easier in the moment, but they quietly erode trust, connection, and team culture. Authentic leadership means choosing clarity over comfort—even when it’s hard. This week’s archive post is a reminder that real leadership starts with real conversations.

Read the Full Blog Post Here


Closing Thoughts

Leadership isn’t just about solving problems—it’s about growing the problem-solving capacity of your team. How will you use reverse delegation to develop your team this week?

If you’d like support applying strategies like this in real time, I currently have two openings for my Executive Mastery Coaching this fall. Just hit reply to this email to explore whether it’s the right fit for you.

Thank you for being part of our leadership community. We’re dedicated to helping you lead with Clarity, Authenticity, Responsibility, and Engagement. Until next week, keep raising the bar on your leadership journey!


Whenever you’re ready, here are ways to take your leadership to the next level:

  • Executive Mastery Coaching (2 openings this fall): I work privately with no more than 10 senior leaders at a time in an annual, access-first partnership. Bi-weekly strategy sessions plus unlimited access between sessions means you’re never leading alone. Hit reply to this email if you’d like details.
  • CARE to Lead® for Teams: If your organization is ready for more innovative, future-focused conversations, let’s design a custom CARE to Lead® experience. This is where bigger questions become real results. Click here to schedule an exploratory call.
  • Thinking about a career change? Start with this 2-minute quiz to see if now’s the time to explore what’s next.

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